Vergelegen Merlot Reserve 2015
Vineyards
The grapes were all selected from the Vergelegen vineyards; the Merlot from Rooiland and Stonepine and the Cabernet Franc from Rondekop.
Winemaking and Maturation
The fruit was picked at peak physiological ripeness to avoid the necessity of adding acid and prevent the extraction of hard tannins. Picking took place from 23 February to 3 March 2015. Fermentation took place at a consistent 25°C. The young wine was left to macerate on its skins for a further 7 weeks before pressing. Malolactic fermentation was induced in stainless steel tanks and was followed by maturation in 225l French oak barrels for 16 months before bottling on 18 January 2017
Tasting Notes
Ripe plum colour with a ruby rim. The nose shows ripe fruit flavours, black cherries, plum, spice and a touch of chocolate. The ripeness of the fruit is balanced by fresh fruit acidity and soft wood/fruit tannins. The aftertaste is long and lasting.
Technical Details
Alc 14.57
RS2.50 g/l
TA 6.3 g/l
pH 3.42
